Questions remain about PA budget

While everybody was trying to enjoy their Fourth of July picnics, Gov. Ed Rendell signed the $28.2 billion general fund budget for 2008-09 into law.

The budget was four days late, continuing Rendell's dubious streak of six years in office and six late budgets.

There are a lot of questions about the spending plan, including whether a massive tax increase will be needed this time next year to make up for Rendell's deficit spending.

For more on the budget, check out GrassrootsPA.com and POLICY BLOG

There's also a good read, "What Can We Cut?" at POLICY BLOG

Also check out "Officials sound budget alarm" in The Harrisburg Patriot-News.

Keep in mind that this is an election year.

All 203 members of the House and 25 members of the Senate face the voters in Novemember.

I wouldn't put it past most of these career politicians to go along with the budget this year and wait for the consequences in 2009 -- after most of them are safely re-elected to new terms. (Only 33 lawmakers voted against the bloated budget.)

Better play it safe and vote out most of the incumbents in Novemember.